Interpreter adaptation in hybrid ecology: the case of video-mediated commissioning of equipment

Abstract

Video-mediated interpreting is a relatively new object of research, which requires integration of theoretical and methodological frameworks of translation studies, communication theory, media theory, and cognitive science. This paper examines the way an interpreter adapts to a hybrid environment, which merges communication in physical and virtual spaces. We describe the case of dialogue interpreting during the commissioning of equipment supervised by an instructor via video link. The study is based on transcripts as well as the interpreter’s retrospective commentary. The interpreter’s decision-making is examined through the lens of metacognition theory and monitoring processes. Among the key factors determining the complexity of this job, are the nature of dialogue interpreting in an industrial shop floor, and the limitations of video communication via a smartphone. In addition to the relaying and coordinating functions common to dialogue interpreting, in a hybrid ecology interpreter also monitors the status of the communication device. This kind of media-multitasking may result in additional cognitive monitoring, potentially leading to reduced attention span and affecting the interpreting quality. Additionally, the interpreter actively contextualizes the physical scenario for the remote participant, which leads to over-elaboration, excessive repetition, and addition of non-renditions. While many turn-taking devices are not available in video-mediated communication, the interpreter resorts to verbal turn-taking patterns and ultimately takes control of communication. In а hybrid environment, the logic of transition from a problematic situation to its solution becomes more unpredictable. The fragmented nature of interaction challenges the identification of relevant meanings and the process of probabilistic prediction.